Patagonia emerges as a candidate region for AI data centers

Argentina's Patagonia is being weighed as a site for large AI data centers, according to a Reuters report. The draw is a cool climate, hydropower, wind, shale gas from Vaca Muerta and plenty of empty land.

Power producer Pampa Energía plans up to 500 megawatts in Neuquén province and is seeking investors; first contracts are expected by the end of 2026, with interested parties starting at 20 to 40 megawatts. Grid infrastructure for the full build-out alone would cost around $900 million. Poland's Green Capital plans 300 megawatts in Chubut, rising to 3,000 long term. The country has few large facilities, so server farms have drawn no pushback so far. That could change: Mapuche families who have clashed with energy companies live beside Pampa's planned site.